| Gemstones |
| Opal |
| Opal is known for its remarkable ability to diffract light, which results in rainbow-like colors that change with the angle of observation - known as 'play of color'. It is reported to be able to defeat depression and help its wearer find true and real love. Opal is also said to stimulate originality and creativity. Opal is porous and quite absorbent. Due to its ability to absorb, folklore says that it can pick up the thoughts and feelings of people and amplify emotions. Opal is the traditional birthstone for those who are born in October or under the sign of Scorpio or Libra.
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| Colors: | Opal can occur in many colors including white, colorless, pale yellow, pale red, gray, brown and black. The rarest and most valuable of all opals are black opals.Diffraction can cause flashes of any color of the rainbow to be seen in an opal's color play. Yellow, blue and green are most common, whereas violet, red and orange are the rarest colors seen. |
| Shapes: | Most opal is cut and polished to form a cabochon. |
| Origin: | Australia, Mexico and the United States. |
| Care: | Protect from scratches, sharp blows and extreme temperature changes. Wash with gentle soap and water and keep protected when not in use. |
| Notes: | Opals contain between 3% and 30% water. |